NORWAY – County Commissioner Steve Merrill of Norway has won a fourth term by 29 votes over challenger Charleen Chase of Bethel.

In the District 1 race for commissioner in Oxford County, Merrill received 5,372 votes to Chase’s 5,343. District 1 encompasses 12 towns and two unorganized territories in the southwestern part of the county.

“It was a hard-fought battle, and it was a close race, and it was a well-run candidacy from both sides,” Merrill said Wednesday. “I’m happy to continue serving the people of Oxford County.”

Merrill, a Republican who has served as a commissioner for 14 years, said prior to the election that the county has seen steady growth of services without burdening taxpayers during his time on the board.

Chase, a Democrat, said she would work to encourage economic development if she was elected.

Polls indicate that Chase won by a significant margin in Bethel and Brownfield, while Merrill saw gains in Norway, Waterford and Denmark. Each candidate won a majority in six towns.

Chase was not available for comment Wednesday.